Orbit funds the classical road show in Croydon

Tuesday, 09 June 2015

A mass choir of schools come together to bring the Battle of Trafalgar to life!

On Monday 8 June, a mass choir of schools from Sutton, Croydon and beyond came together to take part in the musical re-enactment of the famous Battle of Trafalgar, accompanied by The London Mozart Players.

Over 1,800 people attended the musical theatre performance produced by the Classical Road show and funded by Orbit South. The funding forms part of Orbit’s commitment toinvest £30 million into it’s communities by 2020. Orbit funds various projects across the country which will ultimately offer customers the opportunity to enhance their knowledge, confidence and capabilities.

With music conducted by Hilary Davan Wetton and Admiral Nelson played by west end superstar David Leonard, the show was a massive hit with everyone there, including the Mayor of Croydon Cllr Patricia Hay-Justice and other local dignitaries.

The story of the battle unfolded in authentic detail, illustrated by sea shanties sung by the children, hornpipes by the Central School of Ballet and vivid orchestration performed brilliantly by the London Mozart players. The audience were transported back in time to year 1805.

The stage choir from Ecclesbourne Primary (music tutor Tim Spoerer) and all the children in the audience played the part of two ships’ companies – HMS Victory and HMS Royal Sovereign under the stage command of Admiral Nelson. Everyone in the audience was encouraged to dress up and look the part on concert day!

Carol Leighton, Director of the Classical Road show said “We were thrilled to have two full houses of children who had clearly been well prepared by teachers and sang lustily from their audience seats accompanied by the renowned London Mozart Players. A wonderfully inspiring musical collaboration.”

Craig Atkins, Community Investment Manager at Orbit said “It was fantastic to see the local community come together for this unique opportunity to join in a major concert performance as well as to learn about this famous sea battle in Britain’s history. We are delighted to be part of the production.”